PETERSBURG, PA — In a move to bolster the state’s outdoor recreation industry, Pennsylvania recently launched the Outdoor Business Alliance, an initiative aimed at enhancing support for businesses within this vibrant sector. The announcement came during an Outdoor Business Roundtable held at Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center, led by Pennsylvania Director of Outdoor Recreation Nathan Reigner.
The roundtable, organized in collaboration with the Penn State Small Business Development Center, saw participation from over 20 business representatives and economic development partners. This gathering served as a platform to discuss the challenges and opportunities present in expanding outdoor businesses in Central Pennsylvania, reflecting a statewide effort to nurture this economically significant sector.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration has been instrumental in establishing the Outdoor Business Alliance, a testament to the state’s commitment to aligning with the pace and needs of outdoor businesses. According to Reigner, the alliance is poised to act as a catalyst for collaboration among outdoor recreation businesses, streamline access to information on permits and regulations, and bolster Pennsylvania small businesses’ competitiveness in the national outdoor recreation economy.
Tim Keohane, Director of the Penn State Small Business Development Center, underscored the unique position of outdoor businesses in driving regional economic competitiveness. He highlighted the intrinsic value these businesses bring, not just in terms of financial outcomes but also in their deep-rooted commitment to community welfare and customer satisfaction.
This initiative is part of the Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) Engage! program, focusing on fostering partnerships for regional economic performance. The DCED has played a pivotal role in setting up the Office of Outdoor Recreation, further solidifying the infrastructure to support this industry.
Outdoor recreation significantly contributes to Pennsylvania’s economy, injecting $17 billion annually and supporting 164,000 jobs. Jen Gilburg, DCED Deputy Secretary for Technology and Entrepreneurship, expressed enthusiasm for the potential to spur innovation and workforce development within the outdoor industry. The Shapiro Administration’s investment in this sector is seen as a strategic move to stimulate growth, job creation, and economic diversification.
The formation of the Outdoor Business Alliance was informed by insights gathered during a statewide listening tour led by Reigner, which engaged over 500 leaders from the business, government, and community sectors. The feedback obtained has been instrumental in shaping the Growing Outdoor Recreation for Pennsylvania Conclusions Report and Roadmap for the Future. This comprehensive action plan outlines strategies to amplify the positive impacts of outdoor recreation on communities through job creation, economic opportunity, and enhanced access to outdoor activities.
Business owners like Orlando Rodriguez, who runs Rich Port Adventure Company in Muncy, have welcomed the state’s initiative. Rodriguez emphasized the ripple effect of such investments on local communities, highlighting the benefits beyond business growth to include community enrichment and the fostering of meaningful connections through outdoor experiences.
Pennsylvania’s proactive approach in supporting its outdoor recreation industry through the establishment of the Outdoor Business Alliance marks a significant step towards ensuring the sector’s sustainability and growth. By investing in resources and creating a supportive ecosystem, the state not only champions the economic potential of outdoor businesses but also acknowledges its role in enhancing community well-being and promoting environmental stewardship.
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